View of the Park at Versailles: Stairway with Two Pairs of Sphinxes n.d.

Antoine Pierre Mongin rendered this view of the Park at Versailles with pen and gray ink wash, likely in the late 18th or early 19th century. The image presents an idealised vision of the grounds, a stage for aristocratic leisure, but the presence of a grid suggests it may be a preparatory study for a print or larger painting. Versailles, of course, was more than just a backdrop; it was the epicentre of power in France, embodying the absolute monarchy of the Bourbon kings. Mongin's careful rendering of its manicured gardens reflects the period’s obsession with order and control, mirrored in the rigid social hierarchy of the time. The sphinxes, symbols of ancient wisdom and power, reinforce the idea of Versailles as a timeless monument to royal authority. Understanding this image requires us to consider the history of the site itself: its architecture, landscaping, and the social rituals that took place within its walls. Through estate records, visitor accounts, and other archival material, we can begin to decode the complex social and political meanings embedded within this seemingly tranquil scene.